LOCAL residents have been reminded they can get their homes insulated free this winter under an initiative run by Perth and Kinross Council and its partners.

The Universal Home Insulation Scheme (UHIS) was launched following a successful bid for £560,000 of Scottish Government funding and is part of the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficiency Action Plan, which aims to reduce Scotland's energy use by 12 per cent by 2020.

The scheme targets home-owners as well as those in rented accommodation.

The council has been working with energy efficiency charity SCARF (Save Cash and Reduce Fuel) and contractor EAGA Ltd to deliver the home insulation programme.

The scheme in East Perthshire will include more than 6,000 homes in and around Blairgowrie, Rattray, Bridge of Cally and Kirkmichael.

All households included in the project will initially receive a letter to explain the proposals in detail. The letter will contain an offer for one of SCARF’s energy advisors to perform a Home Energy Check. The assessors from SCARF are qualified to provide free, impartial advice and give information on all aspects of energy efficiency. They can identify how homes can be made more energy efficient, and will also advise if residents would benefit from loft and/or cavity wall insulation.

Any householders who think they are eligible can then apply for free insulation work, to be carried out by SIG Energy.

Housing and Health Convener, Councillor Peter Barrett said: “I would urge residents in north east Perthshire to take advantage of this excellent scheme.

“This scheme is to be welcomed in the current economic climate, when energy bills are soaring.

“This will provide people with warm homes, help them to save money on heating and reduce their carbon footprint, and the overall environmental impact of Perth and Kinross.

“We are committed to helping our residents tackle fuel poverty and assisting those who are experiencing hardship through excessive energy costs. Living in a warm home is vital for the health and well-being of everyone, and is a basic human requirement. We are eager to help anyone who needs our assistance.

“I would also urge anyone experiencing difficulties keeping their home warm to contact the council for help. We can assist and advocate on their behalf and negotiate with their energy supplier in order to improve their situation. For example, we can seek advice on the most affordable tariffs for customers. We can also provide customers with advice on energy efficiency as a way of preventing future arrears or hardship.

“In cases where older people have no heating systems or system that are old or in a state of disrepair, Council staff can assist them in applying for free central heating. For those aged over 60 we will also ensure that an application has been made for the winter fuel payment.

“Anyone experiencing difficulties should get in touch with our dedicated services, which can provide expert advice and help.”